Security Tightened On Agelu Routes As Pilgrims Arrive Safely

Thousands of worshippers travelling to the 93rd Annual Agelu Convention of the Cherubim and Seraphim Agbojesu Conference Worldwide have reported a heavy security presence along major routes leading to the prayer mountain in Oyo State.

The pilgrims, in a series of social media posts, also announced their safe arrival at the gathering.

They also noted there were increased security checkpoints on the Abeokuta and Ibadan corridor leading to the convention venue.

The development comes days after the Cherubim and Seraphim Agbojesu Conference Worldwide assured intending worshippers that adequate security measures had been put in place for the four-day spiritual gathering amid concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the country.

The Conference Secretary, Pastor Oluwaseunfunmi Shodunke, had told Acts of Seraphs that the organisers had liaised with relevant security agencies, which assured the church that adequate security arrangements had been made to protect participants throughout the convention.

He said, “By the grace of God, the convention will hold. Due to the security situation, we are also making efforts to ensure attendees are safe. We have contacted the authorities and security personnel, and they have assured us that there is no reason for fear. Everything will go on as planned.”

Despite the assurance, some regular worshippers expressed reservations on social media about travelling to Agelu, while others announced they would stay away from this year’s convention.

However, updates shared by pilgrims who successfully travelled to the venue suggested that the security deployment had eased those concerns.

A TikTok user, @AdabaEmi, in a video posted on Thursday, dismissed reports suggesting the route was unsafe.

“There was no issue on the way. In fact, the security personnel we met on the way were many. We met them from one junction to the next until we got to Agelu. So there is no cause for alarm. This year’s convention is set already, and people are already arriving. Debunk any false information and come and pray,” the user said.

Another TikTok user, @Eritomi, also confirmed arriving safely at the convention ground.

“The road is very free and secured because I just got there now,” the user wrote.

Several other worshippers shared videos of their road trips to Agelu, including footage of security checkpoints along the highways leading to the convention venue.

Responding to an enquiry by a social media user who asked about the condition of the route under one of the videos, DecentPsalmTV replied, “100 per cent secure and very tight security.”

As the convention entered its second day, the convention ground has witnessed a steady influx of worshippers from within and outside Nigeria.

The annual Agelu Convention, which runs from July 24 to 27 at Agelu Mountain, via Ado-Awaye in Oyo State, attracts thousands of worshippers for prayers, worship, Bible teachings, revival meetings and other spiritual activities.